Malta
ISLANDBOOK
Central Mediterranean
A limestone island in the middle of the sea, fortified for three thousand years.
Ver
- 01Harbour fortificationsBastions cut from the rock around two deep natural harbours.
- 02Stone templesBuilt before the pyramids and still standing on open ground.
- 03The walled capitalA grid of narrow streets laid out inside sixteenth century walls.
- 04Sea cavesBlue water under limestone arches on the southern coast.
Hacer
- 01Cross the harbourA short boat between the capital and the towns opposite.
- 02Walk the bastionsA circuit of the walls with the sea on three sides.
- 03Swim off the rocksNo sand needed; ladders go straight into deep water.
- 04Village feastBands, bells and fireworks, a different village every week.
Comer
- 01Filled pastryCheese or peas, folded in flaky dough, eaten hot.
- 02RabbitSlow cooked in wine and garlic, the island's own dish.
- 03Sea saltRaked from shallow pans cut into the coastal rock.
- 04HoneyThyme flowers give it the taste the island is named for.
Artesanía
- 01Silver filigreeFine wire coiled and soldered into flat patterns.
- 02GlassblowingColoured glass shaped by hand in island workshops.
- 03LaceBobbin work done on a cushion, stitch by counted stitch.